MMS, SMS, and M&M’s

As part of a project that I’m working on, I’ve been spending a bit of time in the world of mobile and cell phones. While clicking around the ether I became curious about what was going to be the next big thing. That actually led me to start wondering, if there is a “next big thing” what will it mean for past big things, specifically SMS, or as you and I know it, text messaging. 

I’ve always been a fan of Steve Smith at Mobile Insider so, what the heck, I’ll pose the question to him. That question, "What's next for SMS?"  More specifically, will it remain just a way to talk without using voice or paper and a way to vote for your favorite Dancing With the Stars couple or will it become more or…for that matter…less?    

Steve’s response was quite simple, “I don’t think that text is going anywhere. Until the carriers get MMS cross-carrier compatible and alter user habits, they have nothing that is so compatible, easy, familiar and ubiquitous for users.” This is point that I have addressed in the past. The massive need for The Easy Button as it pertains to using a new tool is paramount. 

Steve goes on to say that familiarity and ease is also important. “A lot of people, especially younger ones, prefer the curt, uncomplicated mode of communication of the SMS environment.” He continues, “One thing we didn’t anticipate when it comes to digital communications is how much less is more for a lot of people.” In the last week, in playing with a new mobile application and juggling the bowling balls involved in accessing it, I thought, “Texting this would be so much easier.” It’s like my fondness for chocolate; for me, even with all the fancy candy out there, nothing beats a bag of M&M’s. I know them, I can get them anywhere, and their cheap...easy.

Of course, I’m always looking for the monetization of our communication and Steve commented, “I think SMS will remain the main revenue driver for the (mobile) carriers when it comes to data and a primary trigger for initiating off-deck relationships with users. It isn’t going anywhere because people like it, know it and have no viable alternative on the horizon. Everything else is R&D and nice technologies to wait-and-see with, but nothing even remotely challenges SMS.” 

So with that said, here’s the challenge; how do we push the capabilities of mobile farther without making it too complicated. What is the next need for mobile users ("almond M&M's") and more importantly, how can we satisfy it simply? Then, who will pay for it? This platform offers so much let’s not waste it…at the same time, let’s not abuse it. The users deserve and will demand it.